ROSS O’Donoghue is here again this week to preview the Limerick teams who will be in action in the Ulster Bank League this weekend.
DIVISION 1A
Clontarf v Young Munster
The Cookies even surprised themselves on Saturday. When kicking boots weren’t enough, dancing feet settled the issue – Ray Moloney slalomed home the winning try against champions Old Belvedere. Mike Prendergast was firmly back in action while Willie Staunton ably stepped up to the tee. Maybe Alan Kingsley won’t be missed after all. Clontarf already showed they’ve got the chops for this division. Verdict: Clontarf are favourites. So Young Munster to win!
Cork Con v Shannon
Both teams come into this heavyweight fixture with wins in the bag but no tries on the scoreboard. Shannon’s kicking duo of Gareth Quinn-McDonagh and Ben Sargent saw off Dolphin at the weekend. Utility back Luke O’Dea showed promise at centre while Stephen Keogh proved his worth as both player and coach. Con could have up to 8 Munster players on duty this Saturday. Verdict: Shannon to go close (not close enough)
Old Belvedere v Garryowen
Garryowen’s homework for this week? Discipline. They spent just an hour with 15 players on the pitch on Saturday. St. Mary’s took advantage and next up is a trip to a bigger challenge. Champions Old Belvedere were rocked by their opening day defeat to Young Munster and star man Leo Auva’a has played himself into the Leinster set up and out of contention. They should have enough firepower at home though.
Verdict: Belvo have it in the bag.
DIVISION 1B
UL Bohemians v Dungannon
The new coaching ticket were left scratching their heads after UL Bohs lost out in rain-soaked Belfast on Saturday. The backs took ball at pace while the forwards used a strong line out as an offensive platform. Furthermore, JJ Hanrahan has a kicking ratio that would turn Johnny Sexton green. But in dreadful conditions they needed to work harder and play smarter.
Verdict: UL Bohs to right the wrongs against the early pace setters.
Bruff v Galwegians
When Galwegians got the win in Kilballyowen last season, it became clear that Bruff’s focus was firmly on cup success. The Limerick men outperformed ‘Wegians for most of the season, as proved by their November win in Galway. But Bruff can thrive in this division if Peter Malone aims their ambition correctly. This game will tell us a lot as both teams are in need of a first win. Verdict: Don’t rule out a draw.
DIVISION 2A
Thomond v Old Wesley
Thomond are already looking up at 15 teams in this division after a hefty loss to D.L.S.P. in Round 1. Pre-season goals of challenging for promotion took a knock too, as defensive issues remain. But there’s no need to give up just yet. There’s plenty of underage talent to be called upon and Old Crescent proved last week that Old Wesley are beatable. Verdict: Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow – but soon for Thomond.
Old Crescent v Midleton
A low key but hugely positive start for Old Crescent last week. Their new-look outfit took the game to Old Wesley and came away with 2 precious points in a 14-14 draw. Points scoring remains a problem and Midleton have one of the meanest defenses in the division. The Cork men only finished 11th last season but Old Crescent would gladly take their spot.
Verdict: The new men of Old Crescent could do it.
